5 steps China is taking to go Green

There are stories every day about how countries, cities, towns, and everybody in general can improve their ecological footprint, and what it’s going to take to finally change our ways. China has taken the conversation seriously and has already made a huge improvement in its strategy. In fact, China’s green energy level is rising and it doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon. Here are the five steps that China is taking to go green.

Major Investments

In December, China’s Vice Premier Zhang Gaoli and International Energy Agency Executive Director Fatih Birol met to discuss the energy transition plan that China would soon be undertaking. Big numbers were discussed, and China pledged that by 2030, 20% of their energy would be from renewable sources. In order to reach this goal by 2020, China also pledged to invest $367 billion in this transition.

Green Energy Production

Another main factor that is pushing China to meet their goal is the alarming rate of pollution-related deaths each year: a number that hits 1.1 million casualties annually. So, to lower these numbers, China has geared up to fight for clean air. Already one of the biggest solar energy producers in the world, China doubled its numbers in 2016. Furthermore, in 2015 the wind energy field was also improved, to the point that it surpassed the wind capacity of India, United States, and Germany combined.

Investing in Green Jobs

Not only is China bettering their energy production, but it’s also creating job opportunities. Estimates show that after the $367 billion investment, 10 million new jobs are on the horizon. The solar energy field is already employing about 2.5 million workers, out of the 3.5 million total in the renewable energy sector.

Leading the Market

China has set the stage for the renewable energy market as well. Already the main producer and exporter of two-thirds of the world’s solar panels and half of the wind turbines, the economic side of the renewable energy plan isn’t looking too bad either. China is also the country where the most electric cars are sold each year.

No more Coal

By leaving coal mining behind in favor of hydroelectric, wind, solar and nuclear power, China is setting an example for the rest of the world. The transition will not be easy but it will be essential for improving air quality, and reducing health issues caused by carbon emissions.